Because of those who attended, contributed, and supported our 5th Annual Are You Smarter Than a Breakthrough New York Student? Gala on May 16, we raised over $750,000 towards bolstering our students' dreams of college graduation. Everyone had a wonderful time as we honored Gerald Cooper, partner at Campbell Lutyens, and Lester J. Owens, managing director, global head of wholesale banking operations at JPMorgan Chase & Co. Cheryl Wills, anchor at Spectrum NY1 News, kept everyone in high spirits throughout the evening as our emcee.

Gerald Cooper

Lester J. Owens

Cheryl Wills

one of the many highlights of the evening was hearing the story of david silva, btny class of 2024, who will be enrolling in babson college in the fall.

watch the following video to learn about his story too!

Our signature trivia contest, are you smarter than a breakthrough new york student? Was hosted by The Big Quiz Thing Again this year. Eighth Grader Denyce Romero Morales emerged from the final round as champion!